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Description
In a futuristic world ravaged by climate change Nailer endures a harsh existence as a member of the low class "Ship Breakers". He is desperate to flee the dangerous job of stripping decrepit oil tankers but is unable to escape the oppressive brutality and poverty that shapes his existence. When a fierce storm destroys his Gulf Coast community Nailer makes a startling discovery that could change his life if he can overcome his fears. The thrilling plot of this science fiction novel will provoke many student discussions about loyalty, betrayal and how careless choices can devastate our planet.
General Assessment
Recommendation of how and where to use it
This novel offers an innovative starting point for science units that explore the environmental and social impacts of climate change. The catastrophic storms and sea level rise depicted in the book could become the basis of student research into weather pattern changes and flooding risks within their own communities. Canada's position on climate change has often been criticized by other countries. Students could investigate environmental policies as well as the practices of our government to see if they are in fact offering real solutions to this complex issue.
The "Ship Breakers" of the story symbolize the ever widening divide between the wealthy and poor which is already occurring in our world. In countries like India real ship breakers demolish old military ships and oil tankers for poverty level wages. This work is also done without environmental or human safety regulations. This talking point could become the basis of a student driven campaign to inform peers about sustainable consumption and empowering the poor.
Relevant Curriculum Units
The following tool will allow you to explore the relevant curriculum matches for this resource. To start, select a province listed below.
- Step 1Select a province
- British Columbia
- Step 2Select a grade level
- Grade 11
- Step 3Select a subject
- Environmental Science
- Step 4Relevant matches
- Environmental Science 11: Human practices affect the sustainability of ecosystems
- Science
- Step 4Relevant matches
- Earth Science 11: The transfer of energy through the atmosphere creates weather and is affected by climate change
- Grade 12
- Step 3Select a subject
- Environmental Science
- Step 4Relevant matches
- Environmental Science 12: Human activities cause changes in the global climate system
- Science
- Step 4Relevant matches
- Specialized Science 12: Climate change impacts biodiversity and ecosystem health
- New Brunswick
- Step 2Select a grade level
- Grade 9
- Step 3Select a subject
- Science
- Step 4Relevant matches
- Science 9 Ecosystem Dynamics: Learning and Living Sustainably
- Grade 12
- Step 3Select a subject
- Environmental Science
- Step 4Relevant matches
- Introduction to Environmental Science 120: Investigating Environmental Issues
- Ontario
- Step 2Select a grade level
- Grade 11
- Step 3Select a subject
- Environmental Science
- Step 4Relevant matches
- Environmental Science (Workplace Prep.) Human Impact on the Environment
- Saskatchewan
- Step 2Select a grade level
- Grade 11
- Step 3Select a subject
- Environmental Science
- Step 4Relevant matches
- Environmental Science 20: Student-Directed Study
- Yukon Territory
- Step 2Select a grade level
- Grade 11
- Step 3Select a subject
- Environmental Science
- Step 4Relevant matches
- Environmental Science 11: Human practices affect the sustainability of ecosystems
- Grade 12
- Step 3Select a subject
- Environmental Science
- Step 4Relevant matches
- Environmental Science 12: Human activities cause changes in the global climate system
- Science
- Step 4Relevant matches
- Specialized Science 12: Climate change impacts biodiversity and ecosystem health
Themes Addressed
Air, Atmosphere & Climate (1)
- Climate Change
Energy (1)
- Energy Use
Human Rights (1)
- Social Justice
Waste Management (2)
- Hazardous Waste
- Solid Waste Disposal
